does your dog or cat have worms?

There are a number of signs that point to your pet having worms. These range from diarrhea and lethargy to worm bits in poop and a recurring cough. Many pets even exhibit no obvious signs until the infestation becomes severe.

Excellent! This is the best time to prevent infestations. Your veterinarian will recommend routine testing and prophylactic treatment to continue preventing infestations or stop early infestations from becoming serious.

If you suspect your pet has any type of worm infestation, take them to the vet as soon as possible. Bring a stool sample and a list of any medications your pet is taking. Once your vet diagnoses your pet, they’ll prescribe appropriate treatment to help remove the parasite and treat any secondary health issues.

Different kinds of worms and worm larvae are transmitted in different ways. Some internal parasites, like roundworm, can spread to pets in the womb or through nursing even if the mother has no sign of infection — a big reason why your vet recommends routine deworming meds during your pet’s first year.